Study: Heart disease linked to osteoporosis in elderly

We all know seniors are at greater risk for heart disease as well. Risk factors of heart disease include smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and inflammation of the blood vessels. But a potential new risk of heart disease has just been discovered. In fact it has to do with osteoporosis.

If you’re over the age of 50 you’re at higher risk of developing osteoporosis – women and men alike. Osteoporosis is when the bones in our body become weak and brittle and can increase the risk of fractures.

You may not think a bone disease may affect your heart, but it does. This link between the two diseases is according to a new study by the University of Southampton.

Link between osteoporosis and heart disease in elderly Link between osteoporosis and heart disease in elderlyBy examining wrist bone density of seniors 70 to 85, scientists were able to determine a link between osteoporosis and heart disease.

A technology called high resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography was used to determine the bone density in the individual’s wrists. The technology allowed scientists to assess the symptoms of osteoporosis.

Among individuals who had coronary heart disease, scientists also uncovered these people had low bone density in the hard outside of the bone. More so, this relationship was seen higher among women than men. (It must be mentioned that osteoporosis is more common in women).

The new study calls for more research needs to be conducted in the connection of osteoporosis and heart disease. Furthermore, it creates grounds to promote better bone health to reduce one’s risk of heart disease and vice versa.

Read more at http://www.belmarrahealth.com/study-heart-disease-linked-to-osteoporosis-in-elderly/